Best Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread Recipe
This Best Apple Cider Cinnamon Bread recipe combines the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweet tang of reduced apple cider, creating a moist, tender loaf with a delightful cinnamon sugar crust. Perfect for fall mornings or as a comforting snack, this bread balances rich flavors and textures, requiring only pantry staples and a little patience.
- Author: Ruby
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8 generous slices) 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Bread:
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider (for reducing)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
- Reduce the Apple Cider: In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a simmer over medium heat. Let it reduce until it measures about 1/2 cup, which should take approximately 15–20 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly before using to prevent mixing hot liquid with other ingredients.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, sour cream, vanilla extract, and the cooled reduced apple cider until well combined and smooth.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Combine and Pour: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until everything is incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool further.
- Add the Cinnamon Sugar Crust: While the bread is still warm, brush the top and sides with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and granulated sugar. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of the bread, pressing lightly to help it adhere and form a delicious crust.
Notes
- Reducing the apple cider intensifies its flavor and prevents excess liquid in the batter.
- Do not overmix the batter to ensure a tender crumb.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt adds moisture and a slight tanginess to the bread.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.
- The loaf keeps well at room temperature for 2 days and can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Slice and toast leftovers for a warm, crisp treat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of loaf)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: apple cider bread, cinnamon bread, fall bread recipe, spiced bread, cinnamon sugar crust, moist quick bread